A big rumor has been circling the ‘net that Jon M. Chu (Step-Up 2&3, G.I. Joe: Retaliation) is the current top contender to sit in the directorial captain’s chair for Star Trek 3. While this bit of information has rightfully been met with groans from most, we here at Cinematallica warn you to not get too upset just yet. According to an industry source, Chu’s name might be on the list, but he is NOT Paramount’s #1 choice to replace J.J. Abrams as the rebooted series’ helmsman. So why all the hubbub? While our source couldn’t confirm one way or another, it seems entirely likely that Jon’s name has been leaked as a prospective choice in order to coax their actual primo draft pick into finally signing a contract. So who’s the real golden boy?

Rupert Wyatt.

The Rise of the Planet of the Apes director has had a hard time getting another project off the ground since he rebooted that particular franchise for Fox and is now happily running into the arms of another ’60s science fiction property. I’m told that Wyatt is virtually a lock at this stage in the game. Granted things could easily change (FYI: Ben Affleck actually DID almost sign on to Man of Steel), but don’t be surprised if Paramount and Bad Robot decide to boldly go [ape] where no man has gone before.